The important thing is to do a little bit each day towards preparedness. That's the way everything gets done, just a little at a time. If you can't afford a lot of expensive gear, don't let that stop you. If you can pick up a case of water bottles (get the ones that are lined with the cardboard) every time you go to the supermarket and stash them under one of the beds in your home, that's so much better than doing nothing. If you pick up an extra can or two of food, that's better than doing nothing, too!
Many prepping skills can be learned over the internet for free. Check out youtube for skills like starting fires and such.